Donald Trump expressed a favorable view on reports that India might be ceasing its oil purchases from Russia, describing it as a ‘good step.’ His remarks were made in the context of the US levying a 25% tariff on Indian imports in response to India’s trade relations with Russia, particularly regarding crude oil and military equipment. Trump also indicated that further penalties against India were being considered.
During an interview, Trump stated his understanding that India would stop buying oil from Russia and saw this as a positive development. This was in response to a question about potential penalties and whether he would speak with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had previously clarified that its energy procurement strategy is driven by national interests and global market conditions, denying awareness of any specific changes in import practices. US officials, including Trump and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, had previously criticized India for importing discounted Russian crude oil despite Western sanctions. Trump had earlier sharply criticized India’s trade ties with Russia.